Exploring the current and future role new data sources and new methods play in official statistics production and dissemination

Key Placement Information

Closing Date
Saturday 7th March 2026

Start Date
Flexible

Duration
3-months (or part-time equivalent)

Full-time or Part-time
Flexible

In Person, Online or Hybrid
Online

Job Sector
Public

Project Areas
Research, Stakeholder Engagement, Resource Generation

How to Apply
Submit a CV, cover letter and the ESRC funding permission form

Project Description

The Office for Statistics Regulation (OSR) is the independent regulatory arm of the UK Statistics Authority, which is a non-ministerial government department.
OSR provides independent regulation of all official statistics produced in the UK. As regulators, it is their role to support public confidence in statistics and their use by government, by addressing harms and making sure that statistics serve the public good.

The potential for new data sources, such as smart data from mobile devices and wearable technology, and new analytical methods, including generative AI, to drive the evolution of official statistics is huge. These developments offer significant opportunities to enhance official statistics but also raise critical questions about how to ensure their trustworthiness, quality, and value. To regulate confidently in this changing environment, OSR needs accessible, evidence-based resources that explain these evolving approaches and their implications.

This project will explore the current and future role new data sources and new methods play in official statistics production and dissemination. The work will involve engaging with regulators and key stakeholders, reviewing UK and international developments, and horizon scanning for future trends.

Please note this opportunity has been advertised across multiple Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs).